Meniscus Tear: Rehabilitation Exercises

Introduction

A
meniscus tear is a common knee joint injury. How well
the knee will heal and whether surgery will be needed depends in large part on
the type of tear and how bad the tear is. Work with your doctor to plan a
rehabilitation (rehab) program that helps you regain as much strength and flexibility
in your knee as possible. Your rehab program probably will include
physical therapy and home exercises.

Exercises that might be
prescribed for rehab are listed here. Work with your doctor and
physical therapist to design a program that will best help you reach your
rehab goals.

A coordinated program of physical therapy and
home exercises can advance healing in your knee and help you return to desired
activities.

Building strength and flexibility in your knee and legs
may help prevent future degeneration in your knee.

How do I do exercise to heal my meniscus?

For most
tears, some simple exercises can help maintain muscle strength in the front of
the thigh (quadriceps), back of the thigh (hamstrings), calf, and hip. All of
these areas are important for your overall leg function while your knee heals
after an injury or after surgery. Exercises should only be done on the advice
of your doctor and only if you feel very minimal or no pain while you do them at home.

The list below has links to specific exercises with pictures and
instructions.

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